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Keto Appetizers

Gorton (French-Canadian Pork Spread)

This traditional French-Canadian pork spread has been a cherished part of my family's gatherings for years. With its rich, slow-simmered flavor and creamy texture, it transforms simple keto meals into something truly special. The aroma of cloves and nutmeg fills the kitchen as it cooks, promising a hearty, savory treat. Making it yourself allows you to control the ingredients for a perfectly keto-friendly dish.

15 min Prep time 90 min Cook time 105 min Total time 12 Servings 350 Calories
Gorton (French-Canadian Pork Spread)

Ingredients

  • pounds finely ground pork fat
  • pounds finely ground pork
  • onions, finely chopped
  • cups water
  • teaspoon ground cloves
  • /4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    In a large pot, combine the ground pork fat, ground pork, chopped onions, water, cloves, and nutmeg. I like to mix everything thoroughly with a wooden spoon to ensure even distribution of spices. Season generously with salt and pepper—don't be shy, as the flavors concentrate during cooking. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. The key here is patience: let it cook uncovered for at least an hour and a half, stirring occasionally with a potato masher to break down the meats. Every 15 minutes, mash the mixture to help achieve a smooth consistency. If you notice the liquid evaporating too quickly, add a splash of water to prevent sticking. The longer you simmer, the deeper the flavor, so I often let it go for two hours or more. As you near the end, allow the liquid to reduce until the mixture thickens and the pork is very tender. Once done, transfer the gorton to a container and refrigerate overnight. The next day, you'll see a layer of solidified fat on top

  2. Step 2

    you can either discard it for a leaner spread or stir it back in for a creamier texture. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Chef's Tip

For an extra layer of richness, I sometimes stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking. It gives the gorton a silky finish that's irresistible on warm keto toast.

Storage Tips

Store the gorton in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, or enjoy it cold as a spread.

Variation Tips

Serve gorton on cucumber slices or endive leaves for a refreshing crunch. For a heartier option, spoon it onto keto-friendly toast with a drizzle of olive oil. You can also fold in fresh herbs like parsley or chives before chilling for added brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions